Deadline Date: March 15, 2026
The Digital Catapult is currently accepting applications to support UK SMEs in validating connected products and services using Northern Ireland’s largest private 5G and Cellular IoT testbed.
Validating performance in live industrial networks, De-risking technical development and optimising solution architecture, Accessing advanced infrastructure including private 5G Standalone, 4G, NB IoT, LTE M and Wi Fi 6E networks, Leveraging GPU-enabled edge compute for real-time analytics and AI inference, Structured validation sprints with expert guidance, Accelerating market readiness in advanced connectivity environments.
The programme enables SMEs to de-risk technical development by testing solutions in operational networks integrated within real industrial environments, rather than simulated lab conditions. Selected participants from April to June 2026 will refine use cases, access prototyping tools, and undertake structured validation sprints to generate robust performance data.
Participants can test across private 5G Standalone, 4G, NB IoT, LTE M and Wi Fi 6E networks, using licensed spectrum and industrial-grade infrastructure. Onsite hardware, including IoT development kits, gateways, mobile devices, and sensors, supports full system integration, while GPU-enabled edge compute platforms enable real-time analytics and AI inference.
The programme is open to UK-registered SMEs developing connected products or services, including IoT devices, sensor-based technologies, AI and edge-enabled applications, immersive XR solutions, software platforms, mobile applications, digital twins, and Industry 4.0 systems. Applicants must be able to test or validate their applications using at least one technology from Future Networks, including 5G or NB-IoT, and be eligible to receive up to £17,000 in State Assistance.
This programme is particularly relevant to companies operating in smart manufacturing, industrial automation, creative industries, energy and utilities, aerospace, maritime and defence, telecoms, and transport and infrastructure. Participants benefit from a cost-effective pathway to validate performance, strengthen product confidence, and accelerate market readiness within advanced connectivity environments.
For more information, visit Digital Catapult.
